Gary Rowett ready for Birmingham City challenge

28 October 2014

New Birmingham City boss Gary Rowett has pledged to restore pride to the club as he begins his daunting assignment.

The former Blues defender was named as Lee Clark's successor on Monday and moves from Burton Albion to take over a team 23rd in the Sky Bet Championship and reeling from an 8-0 home defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday.

He told the club's official website: "It is an honour and privilege to be the manager of Birmingham City. This is a fantastic opportunity and an exciting challenge that I'm ready for.

"Having spent time here as a player, I know what this club is all about and what the supporters expect from their team.

"The aim for me now is to work as hard, as professionally and as diligently as I can to produce a team that can replicate the passion and pride that the supporters have; a team that they can believe in."

The 40-year-old, who made more than 100 appearances during two years with the Blues between 1998 and 2000 before leaving for a then club-record fee of £3million, begins his reign in Saturday's televised derby away to Wolves.

"It's into the lion's den and a game that's live on Sky Sports but that's what it's all about," he added.

"I know this job won't be easy but I'm ready for that and I'm looking forward to helping drive this club forward."